A study titled "Monitoring major biodiversity stronghold in war zones: model predicts Lake Chad remains Africa's most important wetland for waterbirds" estimates that Lake Chad supports nearly 2.5 million waterbirds, making it one of the most important wetlands for birdlife in Africa. Conducted in a region affected by insecurity, the research also suggests that some conflict zones may unexpectedly serve as refuges for biodiversity. The paper is published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.